Mount Gretna Pennsylvania ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania.
1. Mount Gretna Playhouse
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE
The Mount Gretna Playhouse is a charming historic venue located at 200 Pennsylvania Avenue that hosts various theatrical performances. It serves as the home for the Gretna Theatre, which offers quality productions throughout the summer season. Visitors can enjoy professional performances in a unique, intimate setting surrounded by the natural beauty of Mount Gretna.
2. Mt. Gretna Tabernacle
RELIGIOUS CULTURAL CENTER
Mt. Gretna Tabernacle serves as the home of the Mt. Gretna Bible Festival featuring concerts, worship services, and other spiritual events. Located at Third Street and Glossbrenner Avenue in Mt. Gretna's Campmeeting section, the Tabernacle is situated behind the United Methodist Church. The venue has been a significant cultural and religious gathering place since the establishment of the Campmeeting area in 1892.
3. Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach
NATURAL SWIMMING DESTINATION
Mt. Gretna Lake & Beach is a popular seasonal attraction that operates daily from May 23 through September 7, with hours from 11:30am to 6:30pm. The lake was formed in 1886 when Robert Coleman ordered a dam constructed across Conewago Creek, creating what is now known as Lake Conewago. This natural swimming destination has been drawing crowds for over a century with its refreshing waters and scenic surroundings.
4. Mt. Gretna Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Mt. Gretna Historical Society Museum, located at 206 Pennsylvania Avenue, preserves and showcases the rich history of the Mount Gretna area. Open on weekends from 1-4pm between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the museum offers exhibits, guided walking tours, and a self-guided mobile tour called 'tutouria'. The Museum and Library/Research Center are available by appointment during the off-season from October through May.
5. Mount Gretna Roller Rink
CLASSIC SKATING EXPERIENCE
The Mount Gretna Roller Rink offers visitors a nostalgic skating experience in a charming historic setting. This longstanding attraction has been entertaining generations of residents and tourists alike with its family-friendly atmosphere. The roller rink represents one of Mount Gretna's traditional recreational activities that has stood the test of time.
6. Original Mount Gretna Cicada Music Festival
OUTDOOR SUMMER CONCERTS
The Original Mount Gretna Cicada Music Festival is a beloved summer concert series that showcases diverse musical performances. Taking place at The Mount Gretna Playhouse, this festival brings quality entertainment to the community in an enchanting outdoor setting. The festival exemplifies Mount Gretna's strong commitment to arts and culture that continues throughout the year.
7. Clarence Schock Nature Center at Governor Dick
NATURAL WILDERNESS EXPLORATION
The Clarence Schock Nature Center at Governor Dick offers visitors various levels of hiking and bouldering experiences within a protected natural area. The park features trails winding through pristine forest, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife observation. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the tranquility of this less-traveled natural treasure just minutes from Mount Gretna's center.
8. Porch and Pantry
BELOVED LOCAL EATERY
Porch and Pantry is renowned as one of the best places in central Pennsylvania for breakfast and lunch, offering delicious meals in a charming setting. The restaurant caters to various dietary preferences with gluten-free and vegan options available on their menu. Visitors to Mount Gretna consider this eatery an essential stop for quality dining during their exploration of the town.
9. Mt. Gretna Visitor Center
INFORMATION AND WELCOME HUB
The Mt. Gretna Visitor Center serves as the primary information hub for tourists during the summer months. Visitors can stop by to learn about all the activities and events happening around town during their stay. The center provides valuable resources for maximizing the Mount Gretna experience, from historical information to current attractions.
10. Mt. Gretna United Methodist Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
The Mt. Gretna United Methodist Church stands as a significant historical and spiritual landmark in the heart of the community. Located near the Tabernacle in Mt. Gretna's Campmeeting section, the church has been serving the community since the town's early days. The church's architecture and setting reflect the unique character and heritage of Mount Gretna.
11. Gretna Theatre
PROFESSIONAL SUMMER STOCK
Gretna Theatre is one of the oldest summer stock theaters in America, presenting professional productions in the historic Mount Gretna Playhouse. Each season features a diverse lineup of Broadway musicals, plays, and special events performed by talented professional actors. The theatre has been a cornerstone of Mount Gretna's rich cultural scene, drawing theater enthusiasts from across the region.
12. Farmers Encampment Building
AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE SITE
The Farmers Encampment Building in Mount Gretna was established in 1890 when Robert Coleman invited the Farmer's Encampment to the area. This historic structure stands as a testament to Mount Gretna's agricultural heritage and community gatherings of the late 19th century. The building continues to represent the town's connection to its past while serving the present community.
13. Hersheypark
THRILLING AMUSEMENT PARK
Hersheypark is a popular amusement park located approximately 20 minutes from Mount Gretna, offering over 70 rides and attractions including 14 roller coasters. The park features water attractions at The Boardwalk, live entertainment, and dining options with a chocolate theme throughout. Since its opening in 1906 as a leisure park for Hershey employees, it has grown into a major destination attracting visitors from across the country.
14. Cornwall Iron Furnace
INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION RELIC
Cornwall Iron Furnace is a National Historic Landmark preserving America's most complete charcoal-fueled iron-making complex from the Industrial Revolution era. Located just a short drive from Mount Gretna, this site features the original blast furnace, charging house, and other structures dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore this remarkably preserved industrial complex through guided tours that demonstrate how iron was produced during this pivotal period in American history.
15. Lebanon Farmers Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
The Lebanon Farmers Market is a vibrant indoor marketplace offering fresh local produce, meats, baked goods, and artisanal products from regional vendors. Located in downtown Lebanon just a short drive from Mount Gretna, the market operates year-round in a historic building that serves as a community gathering place. Visitors can experience the authentic flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch country while supporting local farmers and businesses.